Elections judges are responsible for:

• Opening and closing the polls
• Setting up voting equipment
• Registering and signing in voters
• Distributing and collecting ballots
• Helping voters requiring assistance
• Recording and certifying vote totals

Election Judges are only hired during even-year elections. An applications will be available online during hiring.

To be an election judge you must:

• Be eligible to vote
• Be able to read, write and speak English
• Attend a required training session
• Declare your party affiliation (state law requires this to make sure that no more than half of the election judges at a polling place are from any one party)

The following are not eligible:

• A spouse, parent, child or sibling of another election judge at the same polling place
• A candidate in the election
• A person domiciled with a candidate on the ballot

The majority of shifts are for the full day, typically from 6 a.m. until all votes are counted. Some half-day shifts are available.

• Minnetonka election judges are paid for Election Day and training.
• State law allows for time off from work without loss of wages to serve as an election judge with 20 days prior written notice to your employer.

The City of Minnetonka seeks motivated high school students, ages 16 and 17, to serve as student election judges.

To apply, complete this online application.

Student election judges provide key support at polling places on Election Day. Tasks include opening and closing the polls, assisting voters and upholding voting laws. This is a paid opportunity and training is provided.

Email us or call 952-939-8200 to learn more or ask questions. 

Student election judge requirements

• 16 years of age or older on Election Day
• Currently enrolled in a high school or home-school in Minnesota
• Resident of Hennepin County or an adjacent county
• Able to read, write and speak English
• Good academic standing
• Parent and school permission
• U.S. citizen
• Cannot be related to another judge in the same precinct
• Able to attend two-hour training session
• Reliable, accurate and positive when dealing with the public
• Serve without a political party designation

• City of Minnetonka election judge application